Explains how early vaccines were discovered, how scientists have used a better understanding of the immune system and antibodies to learn why vaccines work, and how knowledge leads to the development of new preventative measures; and discusses the controversies surrounding the safety of certain vaccines.
Examines the scientific foundations of the theory of evolution, an idea advanced by nineteenth-century British naturalist Charles Darwin to explain how all forms of life on Earth change and adapt to environmental opportunities.
Explains how matter and energy form the scientific foundation of everything on Earth, providing an overview of the different forms of energy, the variety of particles in nature, Einstein's theories of matter and energy, discoveries of dark matter and dark energy, and other related topics.
An overview of natural selection that covers adaptation, Charles Darwin's work and objections to his theories, Mendel's findings about inheritance, and other related topics.
Explains the theory of relativity, discussing how it was developed and how it changed our understanding of the universe. Details Albert Einstein's work on the subject and how his study led to the discovery that gravity is not a force, but a curvature of space-time. Includes color photographs, a glossary, and further reading sources.
Provides an introduction to quantum theory discussing its origins, pioneers, scientific development, and use in lasers, nuclear power plants, transistors, and computers. Features color diagrams, a glossary, and sources of further reading.
Outlines scientists' theories regarding the way the universe works, from the Big Bang through its ongoing period of expansion. Considers how the universe will eventually "end" and explores the topics of dark matter and dark energy, relating them to the fate of the universe.
Explains the biological process of reproduction and examines how various organisms reproduce. Examines cloning as an alternative means of creating living beings and discusses how new technologies can transform human reproduction and create new plants and animals. Also details the debate surrounding this issue.
Presents evidence for and against global warming and climate change and details the history of this debate. Considers how Earth's plants and animals may be impacted if the climate continues to change and includes full-color photographs, a glossary, and further reading sources.
